Electrical Safety
We visit all homes at least once every 5 years to check that the electrics continue to be safe to use. This page explains what to do in an emergency, how we help keep your homes safe and what your responsibilities are.
Why is electrical safety important?
Most electric shocks, burns, and electrical fires happen in our homes because of faults and damage to the wiring system or appliances, or where electrical appliances are not used correctly.
There are over 20,000 fires each year in the UK caused by electrical faults.
How we help keep you safe at home
It is essential that your electrical installation is checked regularly.
It is the law that we provide you with an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) following a test of the wiring and fixed electrical equipment in your home at least every five years or when there is a change in tenancy.
The EICR will:
- identify if you have any overloading issues
- find any potential electric shock risks and fire hazards
- identify any defective electrical work
- check your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and make sure they are in date and tested
- ensure proper earthing and bonding
Our electricians and contractors will make sure your home is safe by resolving any dangerous issues immediately when they inspect your home.
When your EICR is due, it is important that you give us access to your home so that we can make sure you and your household are safe. Preventing us from accessing your home would put you in breach of your Occupation Contract. Once the inspection is complete we will send you a copy of the EICR for your records within 14 days.
What do you need to do to stay safe?
Over time, electrical installations and appliances can deteriorate and become damaged, leading to potential risks.
To keep you and your household safe:
- Do not ignore any damage to switches, sockets, or appliances
- Do not misuse your electrical installation, devices, or appliances
- Avoid overloading sockets – check if you are exceeding the maximum load by using Electrical Safety First’s socket calculator. If you do not have enough sockets for your needs, please contact us
- Give us access so that we can regularly maintain your electrical installation and check that is safe
- You must request permission from us before carrying out electrical works, like fitting additional sockets. We will advise you on the best way to do this safely including how to find a competent engineer
When we contact you, please agree a suitable day and time for our appointed electricians to attend
If you have any exposed electrical wiring call us on 0800 052 2526 immediately.
Do not touch or go near the exposed wire. If the damage is to a light switch, do not touch or go near the damaged switch.
Contact us if:
- you think you have damaged or faulty wiring, sockets, switches, light fittings in your home, you should contact us immediately by calling 0800 052 2526
- we will advise you further on what action will be necessary
For all other general queries regarding electrical safety in your home you can speak to us on 0800 052 2526 or visit our online contact page.